In 2018, there were over 18 million ranitidine prescriptions in the United States. Making it one of the most popular drugs for heartburn, stomach pain, and trouble swallowing. But, as of April 2020, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has announced a withdrawal request of all ranitidine products. Demanding that ranitidine manufacturing companies recall their merchandise from the market. Both for prescriptions and over the counter medicine.
What Is Zantac Exactly?
About 40% of the United States population is complaining about heartburn at least once a month. At the same time, 10% claim to experience the symptoms on a daily basis. Although heartburn symptoms subside over time, many patients need additional relief to soothe the discomfort around the affected site. Zantac ranitidine is a product that is associated with a group of medicine known as histamine-2 blockers (H2 blockers). Ranitidine goes by the brand name or generic name:
- Zantac 75 Relief
- Zantac
- Zantac 75
Zantac ranitidine is intended to lessen the level of acid the stomach generates. Based on a site like drugs.com, all select ranitidine to manage, treat, and avoid intestine and stomach ulcers. Therefore, Zantac ranitidine is aimed at addressing ulcers or stomach conditions that produce too much acid.
When you search browse for ranitidine, you will find that it’s used for conditions like Zollinger Ellison syndrome, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and erosive esophagitis. This info comes from the data selected from the First Databank Inc site.
How Effective Is Ranitidine?
Scientists used a double-blind controlled study to analyze the usefulness and safety of 75 mg ranitidine in preventing meal-induced heartburn. Based on the results, taking 75 mg ranitidine managed to decrease or prevent heartburn completely. Particularly when taken 30 min before a provocative meal. It helped patients soothe the discomfort and alleviate the symptoms.
Why Did the FDA Remove Ranitidine Products from the Market?
There is an ongoing investigation about the product’s safety. FDA experts need to determine whether the NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine) contaminant identified in ranitidine medications may pose a risk of cancer. Drugs like the brand name Zantac are no longer available for purchase in the UK until further notice.
The FDA must analyze the usage data if the contaminant has serious carcinogen properties that might put the user’s health in danger. The agency stated that the impurity in certain ranitidine medications may increase with time. Especially when the product is stored in warm settings, this could expose the consumer to unacceptable levels of impurity. As a result, ranitidine products won’t be accessible for counter OTC use, existing, or new prescriptions in the United States.
What Are The Zantac Side Effects?
Just like any other medicinal product on the market, consumers may report side effects to FDA when using prescription ranitidine. People have experienced a range of different side effects after using the product. Because of the Zantac side effects, a doctor might suggest you stop taking the drug if you experience any side effects you may report. You should also stop taking the drug if you have an allergic reaction when you use Zantac. Instead, opt for alternative prescription drugs.
But, to understand the product, one must figure out the bad sides of Zantac. That includes listing all the possible side effects. The information here can help. Here is a list of some of the most well-known adverse reactions of these medications your doctor may warn you about.
Common Side Effects
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Sleeping problems
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
Uncommon Zantac Ranitidine Side Effects
- Dark urine
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Impotence
- Poor sex drive
- Skin rash
- Stomach cramps
- Blood disorder
- Easy bruising or bleeding
There are no records of chest pain from H2 blockers. However, the cardiac implications from the medication (which are known to be caused by the drug) could induce chest pain. All efforts have been made to ensure the data provided by Cerner Multum Inc remains accurate.
Now that you know the possible side effects of the FDA, you may be able to understand the real impact this drug can have. For more detailed advice about side effects or additional information, consult with your doctor or a healthcare professional.
Note: Since Zantac can travel through breast milk, mothers should take extra precautions. Zantac side effects may cause bacterial overgrowth and other issues in babies.
What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Zantac?
Zantac pills known as stomach acid medicine, have also been linked to numerous long-term side effects. These adverse reactions have had some level of impact on consumers. In rare cases, these side effects have become a long-term concern. Here is a list of some of the most impactful side effects:
- Anemia and other problems with blood cells
- Poor liver function
- Possible liver damage
- Cardiovascular problems (e.g., reduced, quickened, or irregular heart rate)
- Dystonia
- Vertigo
- Meningitis
Is Zantac Safe?
All ranitidine drugs sold under the Zantac brand name are pulled off the shelves across the United States. Experts are worried the ranitidine may include a cancer-causing chemical and pose a threat to the human body. Therefore, Zantac is not safe until proven otherwise. A doctor won’t prescribe a tablet. The information on this site is not meant to be used as a medical advice diagnosis. But only for educational purposes.
Is It Safe to Take Zantac Every Day?
Since consumers can no longer take Zantac in the United States, and a doctor can’t prescribe it, the information listed below is only for the purpose of learning. Not to provide medical advice diagnosis for patients. If you have any other concerns, call your doctor, pharmacist, or a reliable expert from the medical community.
Health data suggests on a site like Healthline, that most patients took a maximum of 150 mg ranitidine once or twice a day. A 150 mg tablet is the usual dosage. However, certain individuals may have been advised to take ranitidine for a limited period or in higher doses.
For example, patients with an active intestinal ulcer can take up their tablet dosage from 150 mg to 300 mg a day. At the same time, those on maintenance therapy may still need to take a 150 mg dose a day. . Overall, the ideal dosage depends on the person’s health state and body weight. For detailed information on advice diagnosis or treatment, ask for medical help or contact a pharmacist.
What Does Zantac Do to Your Body?
Zantac and all ranitidine drugs reduce the amount of acid the stomach creates. This helps the system alleviate the heartburn, pain, and swallowing problems that don’t go away on their own. It’s known as an H2 blocker or histamine antagonist.
The histamine is meant to encourage the stomach to balance out its acid production so it will properly digest the food. This gives the stomach the best chance to heal and rejuvenate. For more information, call your doctor, especially if you want medical advice about side effects. Our site’s goal is not to provide advice diagnosis or treatment but content that can be used to educate consumers.
FAQ
What type of cancer can Zantac cause?
Currently, ranitidine is classified as a B2 carcinogen, which means that it could expose the body to cancer. With consistent NDMA exposure, patients might develop colorectal or gastric cancer. But, more research is necessary to evaluate its full impact.
When will Zantac come back for sale In The United States?
A company must prove that ranitidine is a safe and stable product. The NDMA levels mustn’t pose a potential threat to health until Zantac can return to the United States market. However, this drug information requires a thorough scientific analysis and time.
Are ranitidine injections also impacted?
Yes. Every form of ranitidine is withdrawn from stores. That includes ranitidine injections. If you are struggling with persistent heartburn, consult with a doctor or pharmacist. Tell your doctor about the symptoms you are having, and they will recommend an OTC ranitidine alternative or other over the counter medicines.
What are other treatment options that replace Zantac?
People can replace Zantac with Prilosec, Prevacid, Nexium, Protonix, Pepcid, or other drugs. But, first, contact a doctor for medical advice. If you are suffering from certain medical conditions, these drugs that used to treat your condition may interact with the medicine you are taking.
References
- https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/Drugs/Ranitidine
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1046/j.1365-2036.1999.00505.x
- https://www.healthline.com/health/ranitidine-oral-tablet
- https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-requests-removal-all-ranitidine-products-zantac-market
- https://zaneslaw.com/zantac-cancer-lawsuit-lawyer/what-are-the-long-term-side-effects-of-zantac/
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/zantac
- https://www.healthline.com/health-news/fda-warns-zantac-may-have-carcinogen
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ranitidine/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2718500/
